Wild cats like mountain lions, cougars, and pumas, show up from time to time in the Central Valley. This is infrequent but does happen. For that reason, we should all know what to do if we see one.
This week a cougar was seen near a residential area of Escazu. What would you do if you saw it? Many people have an instinct to either run, try to scare it away, take pictures of it, or capture it. None of these are recommended.
The authorities suggest that you seek a safe place such as a home or car, bring pets indoors, and call the Municipality, Sinac, or Minae who will follow up with an interdisciplinary approach.
It is also recommended that you stay calm, remember that the animal is only in transit and prefers to go unnoticed and is likely afraid of people, and that engaging it can put yourself and the animal in danger.
